If you’re in rehabilitation, you probably had a major surgery, an accident which knocked you out of action for some time, or you’re suffering from overuse injuries. Or you may be trying to get back to active sports from a ligament tear or other serious injury.
The most important thing about rehab is that it takes time, patience and commitment. Rehabilitation is no magic bullet. When your body is injured, it takes time to heal.
Physiotherapy is a keystone of rehab for some very good reasons. One is that therapists provide an interface between the patient and the doctor. For many reasons, physicians often cannot take time for an extensive discussion of the patient’s condition. The therapist, however, takes time to completely assess flexibility, the presence of painful spots and tight soft tissues, balance and coordination at various joints. Once this is over, your therapist will be able to prescribe the right balance of exercise and healthy lifestyle to relieve pain, enhance flexibility, and restore normal function.
However, this is optimised when your mind is confident and cooperative. This is really where it all starts. Resistance to a therapy limits its effectiveness. If you have already written off your recovery, your body gets the message. Nothing but terrific determination on the part of your therapist can produce even a little improvement in such cases.
So, the first step in successful rehabilitation is to assure yourself of great results. Your attitude matters. You are the one going to work with the physiotherapist. You cannot be passive, or expect something to be done for you. It’s your willingness to work hard and consistently that succeeds.
Look one step beyond. Read success stories. Reassure yourself that this pain will result in your good health. See yourself walking, taking care of yourself, enjoying life. Hold this picture before your mind to make lighter work of your rehabilitation.
Make sure you know how much progress you should expect at a minimum — and see yourself well beyond that! Let your friends and family support you. When you feel anxious, talk it over with someone. They can identify unrealistic fears — a real lifesaver if you’re headed for depression.
This kind of support also helps when pain and low motivation put you off. At such times, it’s marvelous to have someone nudge you through with some wisdom and practical strategies on getting moving when you don’t want to!
Your physiotherapist can also help you with stress-relief and relaxation techniques. Less stress means greater ease during therapy, and fosters the healing power of your body. As it becomes a habit, you’ll see its benefits in every area of your life!
So upgrade your thinking. While unrealistic thinking is no virtue, positive attitude is a wonderful asset which can take you forward on your journey. Harness the power of your mind and get well faster!
Aerobic Vs anaerobic exercise
Aerobic exercise includes jogging, swimming and cycling. It uses oxygen to convert stored body fuels to energy for movement. Aerobic exercise can be sustained over long periods. Lactic acid is not produced in your muscles. It boosts your long-term stamina by getting your heart to pump better and stronger with a slower rhythm as it strengthens. It improves overall quality of life as it burns fat, increases fitness, improves mood and reduces risk of diabetes.
Anaerobic exercise is more intense and demanding, such as weight lifting and sprinting flat out. It runs on stored as fuel. Anaerobic exercise helps build lean muscle mass since calories are burned more efficiently in bodies that have more muscle. During anaerobic exercise, the body builds up lactic acid in the muscles which lead to soreness and need for recovery time. Overtraining, stress and burnout or injury are its chief drawbacks.
Which one is right for you? Visit us for an assessment and exercise program. We can help you reach your health goals, whether that is fitness, weight-loss, flexibility or strength.
Quick tip
Pull in your stomach muscles when you walk. This is a great, but simple way to help tighten those stomach muscles.
Inspiration
Running is one the best solutions to a clear mind.
~ Sasha Azevedo